Quick Answer
The best way from Palembang Square Mall to Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Airport (PLM) is by taxi or ride-hailing (Grab / Gojek). It takes 15–25 minutes and costs 50,000–80,000 IDR (3–5 USD). For the cheapest option, take the Trans Musi public bus with one transfer (~5,000 IDR / 0.30 USD, 50–60 min). There is no direct train or flight due to the short distance of approximately 8–10 km. Ride-hailing offers the best balance of speed, cost, and convenience.
Train & Rail Services in Palembang
There is no direct train from Palembang Square Mall to Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Airport. The distance is only 8–10 km, which is far shorter than any viable rail route. Palembang's rail network is designed for intercity travel, not short urban transfers.
The nearest major station is Palembang Station (Kertapati), located about 6 km southwest of the mall — a 15-minute drive. From Kertapati, trains run to destinations such as Jakarta (Gambir), Bandar Lampung, and Lubuklinggau. However, using the train for airport access would require a taxi to the station plus a train that does not go to the airport — making it impractical.
Key facts about Palembang's rail service:
- Train types: Executive, Business, and Economy classes available on most intercity routes.
- Main station: Stasiun Kertapati (Jalan Stasiun Kertapati, 15 min by car from the mall).
- Popular route: Palembang – Jakarta (approximately 8–10 hours, economy from 200,000 IDR / 12 USD).
- Booking: Tickets can be purchased via KAI Access or at the station.
Bottom line: For airport transfer, skip the train and use a taxi or ride-hailing instead. The train is only relevant if you plan to travel onward from Palembang to another city after your flight.
| Station | Distance from Mall | Key Destinations | Travel Time to Jakarta | Economy Fare (IDR) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kertapati (Main) | 6 km (15 min drive) | Jakarta, Bandar Lampung, Lubuklinggau | 8–10 h | 200,000–350,000 |
| Palembang Baru (planned) | 10 km (25 min drive) | Future high-speed corridor | — | — |
Source: PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) — official timetable and fare data.
Flight Connections from Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Airport (PLM)
Since your destination is the airport, there is no flight from Palembang Square Mall to PLM. However, if you are connecting to another flight, PLM Airport serves several domestic and international routes.
PLM Airport overview: Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Airport is the main airport for South Sumatra, handling over 4 million passengers annually (Angkasa Pura II, 2023). It has one terminal used for both domestic and international departures.
Direct flights from PLM (as of 2025):
- Domestic: Jakarta (CGK — Soekarno-Hatta, 1h 10min), Batam (BTH), Pangkal Pinang (PGK), Tanjung Pandan (TJQ), and Bandar Lampung (TKG).
- International: Singapore (SIN — Changi, 1h 30min), Kuala Lumpur (KUL) — seasonal.
- Airlines: Garuda Indonesia, Lion Air, Batik Air, Citilink, Super Air Jet, and AirAsia (international).
Getting from the mall to PLM for your flight: Allow a total journey time of 15–25 minutes by taxi. For domestic flights, arrive at least 1.5–2 hours before departure; for international, 2.5–3 hours. The airport is small, so check-in and security are usually quick (15–20 min on average).
Important note: Do not confuse PLM with Palembang's proposed second airport (Tanjung Api-Api) — it is not yet operational. All commercial flights use PLM.
| Destination | Flight Time | Average Fare (IDR) | Frequency (daily) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jakarta (CGK) | 1h 10min | 500,000–1,200,000 (30–72 USD) | 18–22 |
| Singapore (SIN) | 1h 30min | 800,000–1,800,000 (48–108 USD) | 2–4 |
| Batam (BTH) | 1h 15min | 600,000–1,000,000 (36–60 USD) | 1–2 |
| Pangkal Pinang (PGK) | 50 min | 350,000–700,000 (21–42 USD) | 3–5 |
| Bandar Lampung (TKG) | 45 min | 400,000–750,000 (24–45 USD) | 1–2 |
Source: Angkasa Pura II — PLM Airport official page and airline schedule data.
Bus & Shuttle Options
Public buses and airport shuttles are available for travelers on a tight budget. While slower than a taxi, they cost a fraction of the price.
Trans Musi Public Bus (Cheapest)
The Trans Musi BRT system operates dedicated bus lanes in Palembang. To reach PLM Airport from Palembang Square Mall, you need one transfer:
- From Palembang Square Mall bus stop (located on Jalan Merdeka, 3 min walk from the mall entrance), take Corridor 3 (Plaju – Palembang Square) direction to Ampera Bus Terminal (15 min).
- At Ampera Terminal, transfer to Corridor 6 (Ampera – Bandara PLM) which goes directly to the airport (25–30 min).
- Total time: 50–60 minutes (including waiting time).
- Total cost: 5,000 IDR (0.30 USD) — single fare per corridor, no extra transfer fee.
Operating hours: 05:00 – 22:00 daily. Buses run every 10–15 minutes during peak hours and every 20–30 minutes off-peak.
Payment: Use a Trans Musi card (available at terminals) or cash (exact change required).
Airport Shuttle Bus (Direct, Moderate Price)
Some shuttle services operate direct routes from Palembang Square Mall to PLM Airport. These are minibuses run by private operators:
- Provider: Damri (official airport bus) — route from mall area to PLM.
- Pickup point: Designated stop near the mall's main entrance on Jalan Merdeka.
- Frequency: Every 30–60 minutes, 06:00 – 20:00.
- Fare: 20,000–35,000 IDR (1.20–2.10 USD).
- Travel time: 30–40 minutes (depending on traffic).
Note: Damri buses can be flagged down at the mall stop, but booking is not required. However, schedules can be irregular on public holidays.
Comparison: Bus vs. Taxi Time & Cost
| Option | Travel Time | Cost (IDR) | Cost (USD) | Transfers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trans Musi (public bus) | 50–60 min | 5,000 | 0.30 | 1 (at Ampera) |
| Damri airport shuttle | 30–40 min | 20,000–35,000 | 1.20–2.10 | 0 (direct) |
| Taxi / ride-hailing | 15–25 min | 50,000–80,000 | 3–5 | 0 (direct) |
Source: Damri official website and Trans Musi route maps published by Dinas Perhubungan Kota Palembang.
Taxi & Ride-hailing (Most Recommended)
For most travelers, taxi or ride-hailing is the best way to get from Palembang Square Mall to PLM Airport. It combines speed, reasonable cost, and door-to-door convenience.
Ride-hailing Apps: Grab & Gojek
Both Grab and Gojek operate extensively in Palembang. From the mall, you can book a GrabCar or GoCar directly through the app. Fixed pricing upfront — no meter negotiation. The pickup point is at the mall's main entrance (Jl. Merdeka) or the basement parking area (check the app for designated zone).
- GrabCar / GoCar (car): 50,000–75,000 IDR (3–4.50 USD), 15–25 min.
- GrabBike / GoRide (motorcycle): 20,000–35,000 IDR (1.20–2.10 USD), 12–18 min (faster in traffic but less luggage space).
- GrabCar Premium / GoCar XL: 90,000–130,000 IDR (5.40–7.80 USD) for larger groups (4–6 passengers).
Street Taxi (Blue Bird & Local Operators)
Blue Bird Group is the most reliable taxi operator in Palembang. Their taxis use meters, are air-conditioned, and follow standard rates. You can find them at the mall's taxi stand or hail one on Jalan Merdeka.
- Flagfall: 7,500 IDR (0.45 USD).
- Per km: 4,500–5,500 IDR (0.27–0.33 USD).
- Estimated fare to PLM: 55,000–80,000 IDR (3.30–4.80 USD).
- Travel time: 18–25 minutes.
Warning: Avoid unmarked taxis or drivers who refuse to use the meter. Always insist on "argometer" (meter) or negotiate the price before starting the trip.
When to Choose Each Option
| Situation | Recommended Option | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Solo traveler with light luggage | GrabBike / GoRide | Cheapest and fastest (12–18 min) |
| Couple or family with 2 suitcases | GrabCar / Blue Bird taxi | Comfortable, safe, fixed price or meter |
| Group of 4–5 people | GrabCar XL / GoCar XL | Single vehicle for everyone, no need for two taxis |
| Late night / early morning (after midnight) | Pre-booked Blue Bird taxi | Ride-hailing may have surge pricing; taxi is more predictable |
| Heavy rain or peak traffic | GrabCar / taxi (not motorcycle) | Safety and comfort; motorcycle is risky in wet conditions |
Source: Blue Bird Group official rate card and Grab Indonesia fare estimator as of 2025.
Tickets & Cost Comparison — All Options at a Glance
Below is a full comparison of every way to travel from Palembang Square Mall to Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Airport, including time, cost, comfort, and number of transfers.
| Mode | Travel Time | Cost (IDR) | Cost (USD) | Transfers | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GrabBike / GoRide 🏍️ | 12–18 min | 20,000–35,000 | 1.20–2.10 | 0 | Budget solo traveler |
| GrabCar / GoCar 🚗 | 15–25 min | 50,000–75,000 | 3–4.50 | 0 | Best value / most recommended |
| Blue Bird taxi (metered) 🚕 | 18–25 min | 55,000–80,000 | 3.30–4.80 | 0 | Reliable metered service |
| Damri airport shuttle 🚐 | 30–40 min | 20,000–35,000 | 1.20–2.10 | 0 | Mid-budget direct bus |
| Trans Musi public bus 🚌 | 50–60 min | 5,000 | 0.30 | 1 | Cheapest option |
| GrabCar XL / GoCar XL 🚙 | 15–25 min | 90,000–130,000 | 5.40–7.80 | 0 | Group of 4–6 |
| Hotel shuttle (if applicable) 🏨 | 20–30 min | Free – 50,000 | 0–3 | 0 | Guests of certain hotels |
🏆 Best overall: GrabCar / GoCar — fastest door-to-door with fixed pricing and no waiting for a bus.
💰 Cheapest: Trans Musi bus — only 5,000 IDR (0.30 USD) but takes 50–60 min with one transfer.
⚡ Fastest: GrabBike / GoRide — 12–18 min, but limited luggage space and not suitable in rain.
Note: All prices are estimates as of 2025 and may vary based on surge pricing, time of day, and exact pickup/drop-off points. Always confirm the fare in the app or with the driver before starting.
Traveler Tips & Local Experience
Based on feedback from frequent travelers and local residents, here are insider tips to make your journey from Palembang Square Mall to PLM Airport smoother.
1. Luggage & Baggage
- Takkyubin-style service is not widely available in Palembang. Unlike Japan, luggage forwarding is uncommon here. You will need to carry your bags yourself.
- If you have more than 2 large suitcases, book a GrabCar XL or GoCar XL — standard cars may not fit everything.
- For motorcycle ride-hailing (GrabBike), drivers may not accept passengers with large luggage. Use a car if you have more than a backpack.
2. Traffic & Timing
- Peak hours: 07:00–09:00 and 16:00–19:00. During these times, Jalan Merdeka and the airport road (Jalan Bandara) can get congested. Add 10–15 minutes to your journey.
- Friday prayers: Between 11:30 and 13:00 on Fridays, traffic near mosques (including around the mall) may slow down.
- Rainy season (Nov–Mar): Afternoon downpours often cause flooding on low-lying roads. Allow extra time and avoid motorcycle taxis during heavy rain.
3. Airport Check-in & Security
- PLM Airport is relatively small. Check-in counters close 30 minutes before domestic departure and 45 minutes before international departure. Security screening typically takes 10–20 minutes.
- There are no premium lounges at PLM (as of 2025), but the terminal has free Wi-Fi, a small food court, and duty-free shops (international departures).
- If you arrive too early, the mall itself is a better waiting area than the airport — especially if you want to grab a meal or do last-minute shopping before heading to PLM.
4. Payment & Booking Tips
- Ride-hailing apps: Link a credit card or e-wallet (GoPay, OVO) for seamless payment. Cash is also accepted but exact change is appreciated.
- For taxis: Blue Bird taxis accept cash, debit cards, and QRIS (QR payment). Always ask for a receipt.
- Bus fare: Trans Musi requires a card or exact cash. You can buy a Trans Musi card at Ampera Terminal or Indomaret/Alfamart convenience stores.
- Damri shuttle: Buy your ticket from the driver — cash only, exact change recommended.
5. Safety & Comfort
- Palembang is generally safe for travelers, but avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas near the mall or airport access road.
- Use official ride-hailing apps rather than hailing random cars on the street. The apps provide driver details, sharing options, and a record of your trip.
- If you are a solo female traveler, GrabCar or GoCar is a safe and comfortable choice. Share your trip status with a friend via the app.
Sources: Local travel forums (TripAdvisor Palembang), personal traveler reports, and Google Maps reviews of PLM Airport.
FAQs: Palembang Square Mall to Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Airport
1. Is there a direct train from Palembang Square Mall to PLM Airport?
No. There is no direct train. The distance is only 8–10 km, which is too short for rail service. The nearest train station is Kertapati (6 km away), but no trains run to the airport. Use a taxi or ride-hailing instead.
2. How much does a taxi cost from Palembang Square Mall to Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Airport?
A standard metered taxi (Blue Bird) costs between 55,000 and 80,000 IDR (3.30–4.80 USD). Ride-hailing apps like Grab and Gojek offer fixed prices from 50,000 IDR (3 USD) for a car.
3. How long does it take to get from the mall to the airport?
By taxi or ride-hailing: 15–25 minutes in normal traffic. During peak hours (07:00–09:00 and 16:00–19:00), it may take 30–40 minutes. By public bus: 50–60 minutes.
4. Are there any shuttle buses available?
Yes. Damri operates an airport shuttle from the mall area (30–40 min, 20,000–35,000 IDR / 1.20–2.10 USD). Trans Musi public buses also serve the route with one transfer (50–60 min, 5,000 IDR / 0.30 USD).
5. What is the cheapest way to get to the airport?
The Trans Musi public bus is the cheapest at 5,000 IDR (0.30 USD), but requires a transfer at Ampera Terminal and takes about 50–60 minutes. For a direct ride, GrabBike/GoRide (20,000–35,000 IDR / 1.20–2.10 USD) is the most affordable motorized option.
6. Is Grab or Gojek available for airport transfers in Palembang?
Yes, both are fully available. You can book a car or motorcycle directly from Palembang Square Mall to PLM Airport. The designated pickup zone is at the main entrance. Fixed prices are shown in the app before booking.
7. Can I walk from Palembang Square Mall to the airport?
Not recommended. The distance is 8–10 km along busy roads with limited pedestrian infrastructure. Walking would take over 2 hours and is unsafe due to traffic and lack of sidewalks. Always use a vehicle.
8. What time should I leave for an early morning flight from PLM?
For domestic flights: leave the mall 2 hours before departure (1.5 hours for travel + 30 min buffer). For international flights: leave 2.5–3 hours before. Ride-hailing is available 24/7, but pre-book a taxi the night before if you need to depart before 05:00.